My dad and I talk about once a week, more if the weather’s been bad and he wants to know if I’m okay. The topic of age comes up frequently. One of his favorite anecdotes is about my grandfather, who, when facing his limits at the age of 87, told my dad, “I’m not 77 anymore!”
It’s all relative, isn’t it? I don’t really feel older at my age, although sometimes when I hear my colleagues talk about their weekend plans I’m aware that I’ve settled into a more sedentary life. And of course I’m discussing osteoporosis with my doctor during every checkup, something those with young kids still at home don’t even think about.
Looking back, I can see my dad has led an active lifestyle since he was a toddler. My mom has not. When they were my age, my dad was hiking, golfing, and generally having a social life. My mom was much more of a home body, kind of like me. These days I’d much rather stay at home and knit than hike, or in the alternative, play Scrabble with friends.
My dad doesn’t take long walks anymore, but he golfs regularly, bowls, and works out. I’ve mentioned this before. He’s almost 88 and plans to keep on doing these things as long as he can. One of his golf partners is 93, and he’s certain he can make it that long. So am I.
I see my dad in my brother. Thom has friends throughout New York City, where he lives, and across the country. He and my sister-in-law are always getting out and doing something, even if it’s a quieter venture like going to a museum.
I like walking, although there are very few places to do it in my neighborhood. I’ve resolved to get out more and hike around some of the nature reserves in the area. If I can’t do that, I’m getting back on the treadmill. I used to do that on a regular basis and loved it. It’s something I should be able to get into again.
I’ve posted resolutions on this blog before, and it’s helped keep me honest, even though I rarely give updates. Okay, the dieting one hasn’t come to fruition yet. In fact, I gained some weight, which I’ve since lost. I plan to keep on losing until I’m at a place where I feel comfortable. I’ve come to realize I’m never again going to have the body I had at 30, but that doesn’t mean I can’t get in better shape now.
So I’m a little older and have to adapt. I’m still young by many standards and certainly still capable of doing more than I’m doing. So onward!
Image Credits: Check Mark © lankogal; Knitting © Hanna; Golf Ball © BUddhika; All, stock.adobe.com
My World With Words 
Your dad sounds really energetic! I think your goal makes sense. But you’re right, we don’t get to keep our bodies at 30!! Here’s to keeping moving!
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My dad doesn’t stop moving, so I don’t need to, either!
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On my blog today, I had a buddy tell me ‘don’t beat yourself up.’ Good advice. I’m happy for people who do what they do. Or do what they want to do. Oh wait–I’m one of those people. You are fine, Belinda. ❤
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Thank you, Lois.
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This brought a chuckle this morning. I know when I turned 60 people asked me how it felt? My response was no different than it had 1 second ago when I was still 59.
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Ha ha. I feel good, so I’m not complaining!
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Your dad is an inspiration to those of us looking to do what we can to stay active…and also be around longer. I’m revisiting some food choices right now, wanting to get a little more fit…but not to meet standards from decades ago. The best we can be in this moment, not prior ones.
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Absolutely. I’m reevaluating some of my food choices as well, although I admit I’m not as committed to change in that area.
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Something that has helped me recently is setting a one-week goal. I started April 1 wondering if I could take 10K steps a day for 7 days. At the time, I was on a cruise and my average steps were higher than normal anyway. I gave it a try (I was back home on the 5th day)…and missed by a few thousand for the week, but I showed myself what I could do—way more than typical. So now that’s in the back of my mind, and my daily average for the last 7 weeks is significantly higher than the 19 weeks before that. (Information according to my iPhone)
This week my focus is food, more plants. Next week might just be about maintaining.
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That’s a great idea. Working on the immediate is a doable plan.
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Staying healthy is a continual goal. No worries about weight. I am thin. If I lose too much weight, I will disappear. However, I didn’t realize how much I had slacked off on taking care of things. As a diabetic, the A1C is a telltale sign. Mine was too high the last time I saw the doctor which was last week. I have since fasted bread. Six days now. I started back eating my protein and salad. I babysit my grandkids and started eating what they eat. My exercise is walking. Especially after having a stroke last year and couldn’t. I do praise God for a second chance. Thanks for sharing.
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I didn’t realize you had a stroke last year. So glad you are able to walk. I have a friend in the same situation, and she’s made lots of progress but still struggles to walk.
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It’s no joke. I still struggle with balance a little and don’t have total feeling in the bottom of my left foot. But I can walk, praise God. He didn’t have to do it but He did.
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